Veteran Nollywood actress Remi Surutu has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amid mounting public criticism over rising fuel prices, arguing that global economic forces, rather than decisions taken in Nigeria, are largely responsible for the persistent increases in the cost of petrol.
Surutu made the remarks while addressing supporters at the launch of EKO57, a group formed to mobilise backing for Tinubu’s administration.
Her comments, which were captured in a video now circulating widely on social media, have sparked intense debate, drawing both support and sharp criticism from Nigerians struggling with the economic fallout of fuel subsidy removal.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) prices, the actress rejected claims that Tinubu personally caused the hikes, insisting that fuel pricing is influenced by decisions taken beyond Nigeria’s borders.
She said blaming the president alone oversimplifies a complex global issue.
“Asiwaju is not responsible for the rise in petrol prices. The price of the fuel is decided by some beings, by the world leaders. The hike in fuel has nothing to do with Tinubu,” Surutu said.
Beyond fuel prices, Surutu used the platform to speak on ethnic relations, particularly among the Yoruba. She praised Tinubu’s family, describing them as kind and well-meaning, and lamented what she called a lack of unity within the Yoruba community, which she said often undermines collective progress.
“They are extremely very good people,” she said, referring to the president and his family.
“But the fact that we Yorubas, we don’t love ourselves, we condemn ourselves in as much as is allowed. If we can just relax and look at what is happening all over the world, we will understand things better.”
Her comments come at a time when Nigerians continue to face economic pressure following the removal of fuel subsidies, fluctuating pump prices, and rising transportation and living costs.
While the Federal Government has repeatedly cited market forces and deregulation as reasons for the current pricing regime, many citizens have expressed frustration over the speed and scale of the increases.
Surutu’s defence of the administration has generated mixed reactions online. Some social media users agreed with her position that global oil market dynamics influence domestic fuel prices, while others argued that government policies, local refining capacity, and regulatory oversight still play a significant role in determining what Nigerians pay at the pump.
Critics also questioned the relevance of ethnic unity to the fuel price debate, insisting that economic hardship cuts across tribal lines and should be addressed with concrete policy solutions rather than appeals to solidarity.
Despite the backlash, Surutu reaffirmed her support for Tinubu’s leadership and encouraged Nigerians to remain engaged in the democratic process. She urged citizens to exercise their voting rights freely and without intimidation, stressing the importance of participation in shaping the country’s future.
